Campaign to reduce farm deaths

AN ad safety campaign launched this week aims to reduce the high number of injury and death rates in the agriculture industry.

Queensland Safety Ambassador Shane Webcke, who lost his father in a farm accident, features in the ad campaign running on radio, social media, in print and online.

Industrial Relations Minister Grace Grace said three per cent of Queenslanders work on farms, but nearly 30 per cent of workplace deaths occur on them.

“There are around 13 workers who lose their lives in the agriculture industry each year, with a further 1,700 injured on the job,” she said.

“It’s because of these figures that we’re running this campaign to spread the message that workplace deaths and serious injuries are preventable.

“If employers and workers take a few extra seconds to stop and think about the risks, they may well prevent another tragic death.”

Agriculture Minister Leanne Donaldson said it was important for everyone involved in the sector to make safety a priority.

For information, visit worksafe.qld.gov.au or call 1300 362 128.